SOMERSWORTH — Tracey Bryant, an on-call Somersworth firefighter, was one of the recent graduates of the New Hampshire Fire Academy in Concord.

Thirteen New Hampshire firefighters celebrated completion of the 212-hour fall evening firefighter program on Jan. 10.

Upon completion of the program, firefighters have familiarized themselves with essential survival skills such as: search and rescue; personal protection equipment; and self contained breathing apparatus.

Other parts of the training include handling ladders, fire suppression and CPR. Training at the New Hampshire Fire Academy also teaches students valuable skills in wild land fire training, forcible entry in hazardous conditions and knowledge on fire detection systems.

In order to become a New Hampshire firefighter candidates must have a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18 years old, pass an entrance exam including a written general knowledge exam and a physical ability exam, pass a pre-employment physical examination, pass a background check with no felony convictions, pass an oral interview and attain firefighter status within 12 months of employment.

“The mission of the New Hampshire Fire Academy is to increase the capability of New Hampshire’s fire and emergency services through research and the application of the best methodologies, techniques, education and practice and fire and emergency medical services,” according to a press release issued by the New Hampshire Fire Academy.

According to the New Hampshire Department of Safety, “There is a high need for paramedic level firefighters in the state. Attaining at least an EMT basic certification will increase candidates’ employability status for a full-time fire department in New Hampshire.